In my local area and no doubt nationwide we have children who cannot afford to play grassroots football due to the financial implications and cost of living. This is because monthly fees range from £25 and upwards which to some might not seem like a lot but to a lot of families it is the difference between gas and electric.

This then leads to a lot of children missing out on the chance to make friends and socialise on top of getting much needed exercise which is beneficial for their mental and physical health.

If children can be involved in grassroot football teams then they feel part of something and if they feel part of a football team then this could stop them from becoming part of the gang culture that is rife in our deprived communities.

So our aim is to set up free football camps which will include workshops to help educate young people on the current risks they may face including County Lines and exploitation amongst other issues.